All Saints Church, Odell - Baz Richardson

This Perpendicular church in north Bedfordshire is unrestored and, according to Simon Jenkins, is charmingly atmospheric. Jenkins regards it as one of the thousand best English churches. All Saints Church in Odell, which is Grade I-listed, dates from the 15th century. Built of limestone from neighbouring Northamptonshire, it is a little atypical of Bedfordshire churches. In the late 17th century the building was greatly improved and in 1820 a clock was put in the tower. Further improvements were made in 1868, and in 1958 a sixth bell was added to the ring. One of the more famous ministers at All Saints was Peter Bulkeley. Born in Odell in 1582, he became its rector in 1624, but since he did not “conform” to the requirements of the establishment, was suspended. In May 1635, like many other Nonconformists of the time, he emigrated to New England on the "Susan and Ellen". On arrival he moved on to found the city of Concord, Massachusetts, becoming its first minister.